Rubio says he opposes Hagel

1/31/13 12:52 PM EST

In a statement, Rubio cited several policy differences with Hagel as reasons for his opposition, such as Hagel’s views on Cuba and sanctions on Iran. Rubio’s chief concern was what the senator called the “new era of austere defense budgets that will severely impede U.S. national security” that Rubio said he believed would happen under Hagel.

“Unfortunately, his policy views are too far apart from what I believe to be the way forward for preserving America’s proper role in the world as a force for security and peace,” Rubio said. “Now more than ever, I firmly believe the U.S. needs a robust military capability that includes a renewed commitment to our shipbuilding program, a reliable nuclear deterrent to defend against rogue nations and a nimble counterterrorism force able to confront the asymmetric warfare of the 21st Century.”